In a first for Ireland, ALONE has introduced Contactless Collection Boxes, in the run up to Christmas, with Jedward spearheading the launch.

Contactless Collection Boxes get rid of the problem many prospective donors face, that of not having spare change on hand. Instead, donations of €2 can be made simply by tapping a contactless bank card against the collection box. ALONE Chief Executive, Sean Moynihan explains:

“The initiative is designed to allow people who do not carry cash to give money, even when they have no coins to throw into a traditional collection bucket. It is the latest sign of how Ireland is moving towards becoming a ‘cashless’ society, and we have partnered with All Points Payments.”

Irish store, The Butler’s Pantry, is introducing the Contactless Collection Boxes in all ten of its stores. Managing Director, Jacquiee Marsh said,

“We have a really good feeling about the new ‘tap and give’ facility — it is quick, customer friendly and allows us engage with our customers about Alone. Win win all the way!”

John and Edward, who also led the ALONE launch last year, tweeted last night,

ALONE supports vulnerable older people to age at home and the charity is no slouch at technology. As well as the contactless donation boxes, it is researching and developing new technologies to assist older people to age at home. ALONE has been shortlisted as one of 11 finalists in Thinktech’s social innovation fund, a €1m project to develop ideas for a better Ireland.